Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 508 - Golf's 2026 Future: Golf's 2026 Future: Our Crystal Ball and Wish List

Before you close the books on 2025 and dive into the New Year, join Michigan Golf Live Host Bill Hobson for a peek into his crystal ball and personal wish list as we look ahead to the 2026 world of golf.

We start with the annual spectacle that is the PGA Merchandise Show — a place where "game-changing" innovations are unveiled every January. Which new tech will actually help golfers play better, and which will simply be shinier versions of what we already own? Hope springs eternal.

Attention then turns to the PGA Tour and the impact of its new Commissioner, especially as Michigan golf fans anxiously wait to see whether the Rocket Classic can secure a long-term future. After losing the Buick Open years ago, the stakes feel especially high. On the women's side, we applaud the LPGA for smart scheduling moves that give Michigan back-to-back weeks of elite tournament golf — a rare and welcome win for fans and players alike.

On a personal level, the conversation shifts toward smarter golf goals in 2026: better preparation, improved course management, and chasing birdies instead of simply avoiding disasters. We also explore the rise of electric push carts, the uncertain future of the Ally Challenge, and whether golf's post-pandemic boom can continue.

From AI-driven course maintenance and drone-delivered hot dogs to rising Topgolf prices and the growing influence of value-driven boutique brands, this episode blends insight, skepticism, and humor — all while asking the most important question of all: will this finally be the year a great round finishes the same way it starts?

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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 507 - Sub70 Golf's Rise: Custom Clubs, DTC Innovation & What Golfers Really Need

Sub70 Golf has become one of the most talked-about direct-to-consumer brands in the golf equipment space—and this episode of Fore Golfers Network breaks down exactly why.

In this conversation with Host Bill Hobson, Sub70 Golf CEO Jason Hiland shares key insights behind the founding and growth of Sub70 Golf, which launched in 2015 after the successful sale of Diamond Tour Golf. Built on experience, not guesswork, Sub70 entered the market with a clear focus on custom-built golf clubs, authentic branding, and elite-level customer service, all produced in Sycamore, Illinois.

Key highlights from the episode include:

• Why the direct-to-consumer model works in golf when customization and trust are prioritized

• How Sub70 uses expert interpretation of club specs, not just raw data, to fit golfers properly

• The difference between what tour professionals demand (trajectory control and a consistent "window") versus what amateur golfers actually need (playability and confidence)

• How Sub70 initially gained traction through irons and wedges—and why the driver category is now rapidly growing

• The role of social media, customer feedback, and industry awards in building credibility without traditional OEM marketing

• How Sub70 has evolved its product lines, branding, and service model since launch

The discussion also looks ahead, with plans for future collaboration focused on testing, education, and transparent evaluation of Sub70 equipment—bridging the gap between technical performance and real-world playability.

This episode is a must-listen for golfers interested in custom club fitting, equipment innovation, and understanding how modern golf brands are built outside the traditional OEM system.

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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 506 - Harbor Town Reborn: Davis Love III & The Lowcountry Legends of Hilton Head

In the finale to our fall special travel-series, host Bill Hobson takes listeners inside one of the most celebrated destinations in American golf — Hilton Head Island — for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the grand reopening of the iconic Harbor Town Golf Links.

Recently restored under the leadership of World Golf Hall of Famer Davis Love III, Harbor Town is more than a PGA TOUR stop; it is a masterpiece of Pete Dye's architectural brilliance, revered by players and fans for over five decades. In this episode, Bill sits down one-on-one with Davis Love III to unpack the philosophy behind the restoration — not a redesign, not a modernization, but a careful, reverent restoration of Pete Dye's original intent.

From there, the episode expands into the broader magic of Hilton Head and the Lowcountry. Bill talks with Sea Pines Resort leaders, architectural experts, and regional tourism voices who reveal why this stretch of South Carolina coastline remains one of the most beloved golf-travel destinations in the world. You'll learn what makes Lowcountry golf unique, how the region maintains its charm with strict environmental and architectural standards, and why players flock here year after year.

The story continues with a stop inside the famous Harbor Town Lighthouse Museum, hosted by longtime curator Nadia, whose 30+-year career inside the iconic structure has made her a living encyclopedia of local history. Her personal story — from Yugoslavia to Hilton Head — beautifully illustrates why this destination resonates so deeply with visitors from around the world.

Whether you're planning a warm-weather golf escape, dreaming of walking the same fairways that PGA TOUR players rave about, or simply craving a deeper appreciation for one of the game's greatest venues, this episode delivers inspiration from every angle.

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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 505 - Golf in Mesquite - Featuring Wolf Creek, Conastoga, and Eureka

Join Michigan Golf Live TV host Bill Hobson on a spectacular golf road trip to Mesquite, Nevada—one of America's most underrated destination golf regions. Just an hour north of Las Vegas, Mesquite delivers a rare combination of beauty, challenge, and exceptional value that keeps golfers returning from around the world. In this special feature, Bill takes you inside three pillars of the Mesquite golf experience: Conestoga Golf Club, Wolf Creek Golf Club, and the Eureka Resort & Casino.

Each stop showcases a different dimension of what makes Mesquite a bucket-list trip for golfers of all skill levels. We begin at Conestoga, a course celebrated for its Old West character, dramatic rock formations, amphitheater-style homesites, and an exceptionally thoughtful course design.

Gary Banks crafted a routing that blends the landscape, community, and golf experience seamlessly—providing both challenge and playability. With multiple tees stretching to nearly 7,500 yards, Conestoga offers forgiveness for beginners, strategic options for mid-handicappers, and pure exhilaration for skilled players. Stunning visuals, target-golf elements, and memorable holes highlight the front nine and set the tone for Mesquite's unique desert style.

Next, we visit the world-famous Wolf Creek, a course so dramatic that many golfers assume the photos are fake. They're not. Wolf Creek's unfiltered landscapes, extreme elevation changes, deep canyons, and risk-reward tee shots create an unforgettable experience. From 150 yards and in, precision is key—this is target golf at its most beautiful and demanding.

For many international golfers, Wolf Creek is a pilgrimage, thanks in part to appearing in videogames and global golf rankings. Every guest leaves with stories they can't wait to share. After long desert rounds, nothing beats coming back to a friendly, perfectly-sized home base. The Eureka Resort & Casino, an employee-owned property, prides itself on hospitality, continual improvement, and making a Mesquite golf trip accessible and affordable.

Vacation packages combining rooms and rounds deliver some of the region's best deals. The intimacy of the resort offers a peaceful retreat after adrenaline-filled rounds at Wolf Creek, Conestoga, CasaBlanca, and the many nearby courses stretching toward St. George.

World-class challenge. Remarkable value. And unforgettable hospitality.

BOOK YOUR MESQUITE GOLF ESCAPE

#MesquiteGolf #WolfCreekGolf #ConestogaGolf #NevadaGolf #GolfTrip #GolfTravel #DesertGolf #MichiganGolfLive #GolfDestinations

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 504 - Lee Abbamonte's Wild Global Golf Adventures

In this unforgettable episode of the Fore Golfers Network Podcast, host Bill Hobson welcomes Lee Abbamonte — a true global citizen, travel icon, and golf adventurer. Known as the youngest American to visit every country in the world, Lee's journey from Wall Street executive to world-traveling storyteller is nothing short of remarkable.

Lee's story begins with a simple study abroad trip to London, which sparked an insatiable curiosity for the world beyond the trading floor. What started as a personal challenge — visiting 100 countries before turning 30 — soon transformed into a mission to see every nation on Earth. By the age of 32, he had done just that, earning a place in travel history.

But Lee's adventures didn't stop there. Along the way, he discovered a new passion: golf. Whether teeing it up on lush fairways in Puerto Rico or makeshift greens in remote corners of the globe, Lee's golf journey is as extraordinary as his passport stamps. During the pandemic, he set a new goal — to play as many of the top public courses in the U.S. as possible. Fast forward to today, and he's played more than 790 different courses, from bucket-list classics to hidden gems.

In this episode, Lee shares some of his wildest and most inspiring stories. You'll hear what it was like to play golf in Kabul, Afghanistan, with armed guards protecting him from nearby conflict, and how he navigated chaotic situations like a riot in Algeria and a gunfire-filled border crossing from Egypt to Libya. Through it all, Lee's passion for discovery and connection shines through — proving that travel, like golf, is as much about the journey as it is the destination.

Lee and Bill also discuss the cultural bridges golf can build around the world, how the sport gives travelers a unique way to connect with people, and why every golfer should pack their clubs no matter how far they roam. Lee also offers a glimpse into his upcoming travel plans — including golf expeditions to India and Sri Lanka in 2026 — and shares hints about his upcoming book and potential documentary projects.

If you've ever dreamed of combining your love for golf with global adventure, this episode will fuel your wanderlust and inspire you to take the next swing — wherever it might lead.

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 503 - Road Tripping to Saint George: Sand Hollow, Coral Canyon & The Ledges in Greater Zion

Welcome to the fourth installment of our Fall Travel Series on the Fore Golfers Network Podcast — where we hit the road, explore extraordinary landscapes, and discover exceptional golf destinations.

This episode takes us to southern Utah's stunning golf and adventure destination: the Greater Zion area. Nestled amid red-rock cliffs, expansive desert vistas and dramatic canyons, the region serves up a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class golf. We profile three standout courses: Sand Hollow Resort (Hurricane / St. George), Coral Canyon Golf Course (Washington County), and The Ledges Golf Club (St. George). Each offers its own flavor of terrain, design and adventure.

At Sand Hollow, you'll experience bold desert architecture, signature elevation changes and ultra-dramatic scenery that perfectly capture the golf travel dream.

Coral Canyon sits at the foothills of the Red Cliffs landscape and delivers rugged beauty, bold design and memorable holes. It's one of the most recommended public tracks in the St. George region.

The Ledges Golf Club blends luxury stay-&-play amenities with a dramatic backdrop of Snow Canyon and desert rock. From its long tees to its sculpted greens, it presents a premium golfing experience for travelers and local players alike.

Beyond the fairways, we explore Greater Zion, soak in the scenic surroundings, chat about travel logistics, lodging tips, best times to play and how this destination delivers value, variety and vistas. Whether you're planning a fall golf getaway, a winter warm-weather escape or simply want to add this region to your bucket list, this episode has you covered.

Listen in as we:

• Dive into the architectural highlights and standout holes of each course

• Share insider tips on tee-time booking, optimal seasons and stay-&-play packages

• Explore the surrounding area: scenic drives, nearby parks, local eats and off-course experiences in Greater Zion

• Frame this trip within our broader Fall Travel Series — what makes autumn travel special for golf, how to maximize daylight and weather, and how this region shines in the shoulder season

So buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, plug in your headphones and join us on the road to southern Utah — where the golf is epic, the scenery unforgettable and the adventure awaits. Thanks for tuning into Fore Golfers Network Podcast. Let's tee it up!

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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 502 - Mackinac Island's Hidden Gems: Wawashkamo Golf Club and The Inn at Stonecliffe

Our Travel Series continues with a special journey to a truly magical place - Mackinac Island, MI. This special destination features a pair of most unique destinations where history runs very deep through the fabric and guest experiences.

Join us for a tee time on the 2nd oldest continuously operating golf club in Michigan - Wawashkamo Golf Club and then stay a couple nights with us at the spectacular Inn At Stonecliffe.

KEY LINKS:

Wawashkamo Golf Club

Inn at Stonecliffe

Voice of Mackinac Island Podcast Series

WATCH THE VIDEO FEATURE

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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 501 - 2025 Michigan Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

This episode is a change of pace from our normal focus as we bring you inside the 2025 Michigan Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held on the campus of Ferris State University, home of the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame.

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